THE Davao City Health Office (CHO) urges mothers in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (Gida) to avoid traditional birth attendants, known as ‘hilot,’ and instead utilize the medical services provided by health professionals.
“We discourage atoang mga mama na dili sila mu-adto sa mga hilot (We discourage mothers from seeking help from ‘hilot’),” said Lea Gunabe, Safe Motherhood Coordinator of CHO, during the ISpeak media forum on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the CHO building.
While home births still occur, Gunabe said district health nurses should take the lead in assisting deliveries, as ‘hilot’ should only serve as partners, not primary caregivers.
She added that CHO has partnered with Indigenous Community (IC) leaders in Gida areas to discourage reliance on ‘hilot.’ However, some remote communities still practice traditional birthing methods.
Free services
CHO assured pregnant women in Davao City that maternal care services are available for free at all health centers and barangay health stations. The Safe Motherhood Program offers prenatal care, supplements, and laboratory screenings, handled by nurses, doctors, and midwives.
In 2024, CHO recorded 26,867 deliveries, with 23,422 women (87.2 percent) completing at least four prenatal check-ups during their pregnancy.
Gunabe clarified that while check-ups are free, PhilHealth members can access the e-Konsulta package for laboratory services, though Hepatitis B and syphilis tests require minimal fees, significantly lower than in private clinics.
Early detection
Dr. Sharlene L. Tan, district health physician in CHO’s Maternal Services, highlighted the importance of early prenatal care in detecting pregnancy-induced hypertension and diabetes.
“Due to the current lifestyle and eating habits natu daghan daghan na ang atoang mga naay highblood and diabetes na buntis so with early prenatal mas ma detect ang mga diseases ug ma prevent natu ang mga complications (Due to lifestyle and diet changes, more pregnant women are developing high blood pressure and diabetes. Early prenatal care allows us to detect these conditions and prevent complications),” she said.
CHO also urged expectant mothers to give birth at one of Davao City’s seven birthing centers in Paquibato, Marilog, Bunawan, Tibungco, Agdao, Buhangin, and Toril, where skilled professionals are available. (RGP)